Daryl Thompson was recognized as both an outstanding athlete and an energetic builder, dividing his time between competition, coaching, and administration for both badminton and tennis. In recognition of his achievements, he was presented with the “Mr. Tennis Award” in 1977 by the BC Lawn Tennis Association.
From 1945-56, he took more than nine Vancouver City titles and eight BC titles in the singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events. Thompson won seven Canadian Open championship titles: 1949 doubles and mixed doubles, 1951 singles and mixed doubles, 1954 mixed doubles, and 1955 doubles and mixed doubles). He was also a finalist for nine Canadian championship titles between 1949-55.
In 1949, 1952, and 1955 Thompson competed for Canada as a member of the Thomas Cup team and he also coached the team in 1964. He was a finalist in men’s doubles at the 1955 US Nationals.
He served as president of the Vancouver Racquets Club from 1958-59. At Jericho Tennis Club, he served as director from 1964-65 and 1971-72, vice-president from 1966-67, and president from 1967-70.
Thompson was also treasurer in 1972, vice-president in 1973-74, and president in 1974-76 of the BC Lawn and Tennis Association. He served as president of BC Badminton Association from 1977-80.
Other roles included Tennis Section chairman of the Canada Summer Games held in Burnaby, administrator for Rothman’s Pro Circuit Vancouver event, and organizer of the International Senior Badminton tour in 1974, 1975, and 1977.